Located in Kyoto’s Ukyo Ward, Sagano, Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu boasts a natural hot spring that flows from 1,200 meters underground. This sodium-calcium chloride spring is rare in Kyoto and is popular among locals and tourists alike as a perfect spot to unwind after exploring Arashiyama.
This article delves into the many attractions of Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu, including its hot springs and other facilities. We also provide information on the rates and how to get there.
1.What is Kyoto’s Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu?
Kyoto’s onsen Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu is a day-use hot spring (super sento) located in Ukyo Ward, Sagano, Kyoto City. Close to popular tourist spots such as Togetsukyo Bridge and Bamboo Forest Path in Arashiyama, it attracts not only locals but also international tourists.
Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu can be used without prior reservation. You can visit directly on the day you wish to use it and pay the entrance fee at the facility. In addition to indoor and outdoor baths, the facility also offers a sauna with a löyly (steam) experience and a restaurant with a broad menu. It is an ideal place to relax and unwind after sightseeing or other leisure activities.
1-1. Tenzan no Yu’s Pricing and Access Information
The usage fees for Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu are as follows
【Usage Fees】
| Category | Fee | |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | General | ¥1,080 |
| General Member | ¥980 | |
| KYODO Card Member | ¥800 | |
| Children | 4 years old to elementary school students | ¥530 |
| 3 years old and under | Free | |
【Rental Fees】
| Towel Set | ¥250 |
|---|---|
| Indoor Wear | ¥350 |
| Indoor Wear + Towel Set | ¥450 |
Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu is closed on the third Monday of each month. On operating days, it is open from 10:00 AM to midnight. Note that the front desk closes at 11:00 PM. There are sometimes unscheduled closures, so it’s best to check the official website beforehand.
Please note that individuals with tattoos or body art are not allowed inside Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu. Additionally, entry is denied to those who are intoxicated, have skin diseases, or are at risk of contagious diseases.
Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu is a 3-minute walk from Arisugawa Station on the Randen Arashiyama Main Line. If you are using public transportation, get off at Arisugawa Station, head south from the station, and walk towards Sagano on Prefectural Road 112.
For those traveling by car, take the Meishin Expressway Kyoto South IC and follow National Routes 1, 9, and 162 to enter Prefectural Road 112. Drive about 9 km towards Sagano to reach Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu. Please use the dedicated parking lot.
【Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu Address】
55-4-7 Miyano Motomachi, Sagano, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
2.Introduction to Tenzan no Yu’s Hot Springs and Saunas
Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu offers a wide range of amenities, as shown in the table below. This means you don’t need to bring any of the necessary items for bathing, preparing for the bath, or after the bath, making it easy to enjoy the onsen.
- Shampoo
- Conditioner (Rinse)
- Body Soap
- Razors
- Hair Dryers
- Lotion
- Emulsion
- Cotton Swabs
In addition to the onsen baths, Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu also offers various other facilities and services. Here, we will introduce these facilities and services in detail.
2-1.Tenzan no Yu
The hot spring water at Tenzan no Yu contains a high concentration of sodium and calcium ions. These ions react with the sebum (carboxylic acid) on the surface of the skin to form sodium carboxylate and calcium salts.
Sodium carboxylate acts like soap, helping to clean the skin and providing moisturizing effects through emulsification. Calcium salts act like baby powder, leaving the skin smooth to the touch after bathing.
Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu offers the following bathing facilities in addition to the washing area:
| Large Bath | A spacious bath where you can stretch out and relax. |
|---|---|
| Cold Bath | A cold water bath, mainly used after the sauna. |
| Jet Bath | A bath with high-pressure warm water to help relieve daily fatigue. |
| Kinkaku no Yu | An outdoor bath with iron-rich hot spring water. |
| Ginkaku no Yu | An outdoor bath with iron-free hot spring water. |
| Neyu | A reclining bath where you can enjoy a half-body soak while taking in the fresh air. |
| Minoyaki Pot Bath | A large pot bath that can accommodate two adults. |
In addition to the above, the men’s indoor bath features “Shigaraki Pot Bath” and “Sitting Bath,” while the women’s indoor bath includes “Takatori Pot Bath” and “Silky Nano Bubble Bath.”
2-2.Foot Bath
Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu offers two types of foot baths. Choose one based on your purpose and the amount of time you plan to use it.
| Hot Spring Foot Bath | A foot bath using hot spring water. Perfect for a short break or while waiting for family or friends. |
|---|---|
| Ceramic Foot Bat | A foot bath filled with special ceramic balls instead of water. The far-infrared effect helps to warm the body from the core. Recommended usage is 15-20 minutes. |
2-3.Fish Therapy
Fish therapy involves the use of Garra Rufa fish, a type of carp that feeds on dead skin cells. This therapy is known for its skin beautifying effects, as the fish gently nibble away old skin. The sensation is mild and feels similar to a low-frequency massage, providing a pleasant and comfortable experience.
If you wish to try fish therapy, you will need to make a reservation after arriving at Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu. The cost is ¥300 for a 15-minute session.
2-4. Carbonated Spring Available on Weekends and Holidays
The outdoor bath Ginkaku no Yu features a carbonated spring every Saturday, Sunday, and holiday.
Carbonated baths are known for improving blood circulation and stimulating the autonomic nervous system. The carbonated bath at Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu is set at a slightly lower temperature of around 38°C, allowing for a longer, more comfortable bathing experience.
2-5. Sauna
Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu is equipped with saunas in the indoor bath area. The saunas differ between the men’s and women’s baths, so please check in advance.
| Theater Sauna (Men’s Only) | A sauna made entirely of cypress wood, equipped with twin humidifiers. Löyly (aroma sauna) sessions are available at certain times. |
|---|---|
| Salt Sauna (Women’s Only) | Equipped with salt that can be used for its skin-beautifying effects. Use the salt as you prefer. |
| Rock Sauna (Women’s Only) | Similar to the Theater Sauna, it is made entirely of cypress wood and equipped with twin humidifiers. Löyly sessions are also available at certain times. |
3.Attractions Beyond the Hot Springs at Tenzan no Yu
Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu offers various facilities and services, ensuring that your visit is satisfying beyond just enjoying the high-quality hot springs. Here, we highlight the attractions of Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu beyond its hot springs.
3-1. Seasonal Cuisine
The dining area within Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu offers a wide variety of menu options, including Japanese and Western dishes, from a la carte items and light meals to banquet-style courses. With an abundance of Japanese food such as sushi, tempura, soba, udon, and ramen, you can fully enjoy Japanese culture. Be sure to try the seasonal, limited-time menus that incorporate fresh ingredients of the season.
Additionally, kids’ menus and desserts are available, ensuring that even the little ones can enjoy mealtime alongside adults.
3-2. Extensive Relaxation Menu
The relaxation facilities within Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu offer a rich variety of relaxation services. You can enjoy body care massages to thoroughly relax your body, aroma massages for relaxation through scents, foot massages, and head care treatments. Take this opportunity to relieve your daily fatigue completely.
You can also experience Korean-style body scrubs that are expected to remove pore impurities.If you wish to enjoy massages, esthetic treatments, or body scrubs, you need to make a reservation by phone in advance. Be aware that costs vary depending on the menu and duration of the treatment.
3-3. Various Events
Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu organizes various events that allow you to experience the charm of each season, such as yuzu baths on the winter solstice, a traditional Japanese custom. Special events, including projection mapping and Aufguss sauna events, are also frequently held. Check the official website of Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu for event schedules.
Additionally, there are regular discount days such as student discount days, senior discount days, and dining discount days. Check in advance for the best days to enjoy Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu at a great value and make the most of your onsen experience in Kyoto.
Conclusion
Located in Sagano, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, Sagano Onsen Tenzan no Yu offers a variety of hot springs, saunas, and foot baths. You can purchase towels and indoor wear, and there are plenty of amenities available, making it convenient to visit empty-handed. With a restaurant offering a wide range of Japanese and Western dishes, you won’t have to worry about where to eat before or after your bath.
For those who want to experience the culture of onsen and sento in Japan, this is the perfect facility. If you come to Kyoto, be sure to visit.
*This article is based on information available as of May 2024.
